In a strategic move to combat financial crimes and enforce compliance with Nigeria’s currency regulations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have jointly commenced a robust public sensitisation campaign in Kano State.
The initiative, which kicked off with a well-attended stakeholders’ engagement in the ancient commercial city, is aimed at enlightening the public—particularly traders, financial operators, and business owners—on the legal frameworks governing the movement, declaration, and handling of large sums of money within and outside the country.
Speaking at the event, Comptroller Mohammed Yusuf, Customs Area Controller of Kano/Jigawa Command, said the collaborative campaign was necessitated by the alarming rate of non-compliance with currency laws, especially among cross-border traders and high-net-worth cash handlers. He explained that ignorance of the law would no longer be considered an excuse, as agencies are now taking a proactive approach to reduce economic sabotage.
According to him, “We have observed with concern the widespread disregard for financial reporting obligations, including the declaration of foreign currency at our borders and airports. This sensitisation is part of our effort to educate the public, prevent violations, and protect the integrity of our financial system.”
Also speaking, representatives from the EFCC and ICPC noted that money laundering, bulk cash smuggling, and illicit financial flows remain serious threats to Nigeria’s economy and national security. They reminded participants that under Nigerian law—particularly the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act—individuals are required to declare any cash movement above $10,000, and violators could face stiff penalties including imprisonment and asset forfeiture.
Participants were also educated on suspicious financial transaction reporting, the dangers of cash-based transactions, and the importance of Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols in everyday business dealings.
The joint agencies pledged to extend the campaign beyond Kano to other commercial hubs in the country, noting that massive awareness and cooperation from the business community are essential to winning the fight against financial crimes.
The sensitisation drive is part of the broader effort by the Nigerian government to promote transparency, combat corruption, and safeguard the financial system from abuse. With Kano being a key centre for both local and transnational trade, officials say it is a critical location for this type of awareness.
As enforcement agencies continue to evolve from enforcement-only roles to more community-oriented outreach, stakeholders say this approach could foster voluntary compliance, reduce criminality, and deepen public trust in Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions.
